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Postdoctoral Associate Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

D. is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral associate with research interest in metastasis and the tumor microenvironment. Our group has a diverse and stimulating environment with projects in basic ...

Postdoctoral Associate in Structural Biology & Biophysics Lee Lab | Duke University School of Medicine A NIH-funded postdoctoral research position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Seok-Yong Lee ...

The Department of Emergency Medicine and the Global Emergency Medicine Innovation and Implementation Research (GEMINI) Center is recruiting a Postdoctoral Associate to the Division of Translational ...

The Department of Emergency Medicine and the Global Emergency Medicine Innovation and Implementation Research (GEMINI) Center is recruiting a Postdoctoral Associate to the Division of Translational ...

Postdoctoral Associate in Structural Biology & Biophysics Lee Lab | Duke University School of Medicine A NIH-funded postdoctoral research position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Seok-Yong Lee ...

The Department of Cell Biology is seeking a Postdoctoral Associate position to join a project in the lab of Debby Silver. The Silver lab at Duke University School of Medicine seeks a highly motivated ...

D. is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral associate with research interest in metastasis and the tumor microenvironment. Our group has a diverse and stimulating environment with projects in basic ...

The Department of Cell Biology is seeking a Postdoctoral Associate position to join a project in the lab of Debby Silver. The Silver lab at Duke University School of Medicine seeks a highly motivated ...

Computational Immunobiology Postdoctoral Associate Position (Williams) Be You. The Duke Human Vaccine Institute (DHVI) continues to lead cutting edge vaccine research against infectious diseases that ...

Computational Immunobiology Postdoctoral Associate Position (Williams) Be You. The Duke Human Vaccine Institute (DHVI) continues to lead cutting edge vaccine research against infectious diseases that ...

Job Title: Post-Doctoral Associate Position Summary: The Department of Biostatistics ... We are recruiting a creative, rigorous Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Dr. Wenpin Hou's team to ...

Occupational Summary The postdoctoral fellow will perform duties related to the function of bacteriophages in the control of intestinal microbiota. Min Degree Requirements: Ph.D. or equivalent ...

Shihuan Kuang, PhD, a premier researcher at Duke University, has a postdoctoral associate position in his lab * PhD is required * Prior experience working with transgenic mice is essential * Onsite.

As the Postdoctoral Associate, you'll be a vital part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary team engaged in cutting-edge neuroscience research. Be Bold.What You'll Do: Conduct independent research ...

Shihuan Kuang, PhD, a premier researcher at Duke University, has a postdoctoral associate position in his lab * PhD is required * Prior experience working with transgenic mice is essential * Onsite.

As the Postdoctoral Associate, you'll be a vital part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary team engaged in cutting-edge neuroscience research. Be Bold. What You'll Do: • Conduct independent ...

A postdoctoral research position is available immediately in the Song/Knechtle Lab at the Duke Transplant Center, Duke University School of Medicine. Our research focuses on understanding humoral ...

A postdoctoral research position is available immediately in the Song/Knechtle Lab at the Duke Transplant Center, Duke University School of Medicine. Our research focuses on understanding humoral ...

Job Title: Post-Doctoral Associate Position Summary: The Department of Biostatistics ... We are recruiting a creative, rigorous Postdoctoral Research Scientist in Dr. Wenpin Hou's team to ...

The Duke Department of Neurosurgery is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Associate to join our research team investigating the neural mechanisms of naturalistic behavior. The successful ...

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Postdoctoral Associate information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$37.1K

$75.1K

$101.8K

How much do postdoctoral associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for postdoctoral associate in Raleigh, NC is $75,104.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,900.00 and $101,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Postdoctoral Associate vs Research Scientist?

AspectPostdoctoral AssociateResearch Scientist
Required credentialsPh.D. in relevant fieldMaster's or Ph.D., depending on industry
Work environmentAcademic labs, universitiesIndustry labs, corporate R&D
Employer and industry usagePrimarily academia and research institutionsPrimarily industry and corporate sectors
Common search intentResearch, academic career developmentProduct development, applied research

Postdoctoral Associates typically hold a Ph.D. and work mainly in academic or research institutions focusing on specialized research projects. Research Scientists often have similar credentials but are employed in industry settings, focusing on applied research and product development. The roles overlap in qualifications but differ in work environment and career focus.

What are Postdoctoral Associates?

Postdoctoral Associates are individuals who have recently completed their doctoral studies and are engaged in a temporary period of mentored research or scholarly training. They work under the supervision of a principal investigator or faculty member, typically at a university or research institution. The main goal of a Postdoctoral Associate is to deepen their expertise in a specific field of study, contribute to ongoing research projects, and prepare for an independent career in academia, industry, or other research-related fields.

How much do postdoctoral associates make in the US?

Postdoctoral associates in the US typically earn between $50,000 and $65,000 annually, with salaries varying based on experience, field, and location. Many positions also include benefits such as health insurance and research funding support.

What are some common challenges faced by Postdoctoral Associates when managing independent research projects?

Postdoctoral Associates often encounter challenges in balancing the demands of independent research with collaborative projects and administrative responsibilities. Managing time effectively, securing funding, and navigating the publication process can be particularly demanding. Additionally, Postdocs must adapt to the expectations of their principal investigator and the broader research team, while also building their professional network and developing a clear path toward future career advancement. Proactive communication and organizational skills are key to overcoming these challenges and making the most of the postdoctoral experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Postdoctoral Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Postdoctoral Associate, you need a doctoral degree in a relevant field, advanced research skills, and a strong publication record. Experience with specialized laboratory techniques, data analysis software (such as R or Python), and familiarity with grant writing or academic publishing platforms are typically required. Strong problem-solving, collaboration, and communication skills help you effectively share findings and work within multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are essential for advancing research goals, securing funding, and building a successful academic or industry career.

What is the postdoc trap?

The postdoc trap refers to the cycle where early-career researchers, including postdoctoral associates, remain in temporary postdoctoral positions for extended periods without progressing to permanent faculty or industry roles. This can lead to job insecurity, limited career advancement, and a competitive job market with few stable opportunities. Managing research output, networking, and planning for alternative careers are important to avoid this trap.

Do I need a PhD to be a research associate?

A Postdoctoral Associate typically holds a PhD, as this role involves advanced research and independent project management. While some research associate positions may accept candidates with a master's degree, a PhD is generally required for postdoctoral roles to demonstrate expertise and research skills.

What does a post-doctoral associate do?

A post-doctoral associate conducts advanced research in a specific field, often working under the supervision of a principal investigator. They perform experiments, analyze data, publish findings, and may mentor graduate students, typically requiring a doctoral degree and strong research skills. The role often involves using specialized tools and adhering to project timelines in academic or research institutions.
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Postdoctoral Associate jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Postdoctoral Associate job openings:
Postdoctoral Associate

Postdoctoral Associate

Duke University

Durham, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Duke University rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

441st of 538 rated colleges and universities


Job description

School of Medicine Established in 1930, Duke University School of Medicine is the youngest of the nation's top medical schools. Ranked sixth among medical schools in the nation, the School takes pride in being an inclusive community of outstanding learners, investigators, clinicians, and staff where interdisciplinary collaboration is embraced and great ideas accelerate translation of fundamental scientific discoveries to improve human health locally and around the globe. Composed of more than 2,600 faculty physicians and researchers, nearly 2,000 students, and more than 6,200 staff, the Duke University School of Medicine along with the Duke University School of Nursing, and Duke University Health System comprise Duke Health, a world-class academic medical center. The Health System encompasses Duke University Hospital, Duke Regional Hospital, Duke Raleigh Hospital, Duke Health Integrated Practice, Duke Primary Care, Duke Home Care and Hospice, Duke Health and Wellness, and multiple affiliations.
The Duke University laboratory of Dorothy Sipkins, M.D., Ph.D. is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral associate with research interest in metastasis and the tumor microenvironment. Our group has a diverse and stimulating environment with projects in basic and translational research as well as clinical trial studies.
Research: Dissect the key signaling events that regulate tumor cell peripheral nerve invasion (PNI) in pancreatic cancer. This will include studying the role of integrin alpha-6:laminin and neurotrophin cell signaling interactions in this process. Test the efficacy of integrin alpha-6 blockade to prevent PNI and reduce tumor progression in pancreatic cancer. Analyze primary patient correlative research samples for expression of relevant signaling molecules and their association with PNI and pancreatic cancer disease progression.
Duke University is an exceptional environment for research because of its rich intellectual community and pervasive spirit of collegiality. Duke consists of 10 schools, with 6,484 undergraduate and 8,107 graduate or professional students. The resources and support for postdoctoral fellows at Duke are outstanding, with numerous professional development workshops and training opportunities. The Sipkins Lab is within the Division of Hematologic Malignancies and Cellular Therapy, a division of the Department of Medicine and part of the Duke Cancer Institute (DCI). The DCI is a single entity that integrates and aligns research and patient care with the goals of decreasing the burden of cancer and accelerating scientific progress.
This position requires a PhD in cell biology, immunology, or other relevant areas of biomedical sciences. Experience in one or more of the following areas is desirable: 1) In vivo mouse models (willingness to work with animal models is a must), 2) Immunology (flow cytometry) 3) Molecular biology techniques. The ideal candidate should be motivated, innovative, with strong problem-solving and interpersonal skills and excitement to learn new techniques.
To apply, please provide CV/biosketch, brief statement of research interests/experience, and contact information for 2-3 references.
Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation or military status.
Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.
Essential Physical Job Functions:
Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.

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About Duke University

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Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools and hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Durham, NC, US